Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has expressed concerns about the stadium used for South Africa’s latest 2026 FIFA World Cup fixture.
Although he praised the venue’s facilities, he believes it lacks the feel of a traditional football ground.
The Belgian coach shared his views after South Africa’s 1-1 Group A draw against Czechia. He explained that he prefers open-air stadiums because they create a stronger football atmosphere.
“If I can be very honest, this is not a football stadium. It’s a nice stadium, fantastic stadium, everything you want. But only the grass is football. All the rest is not,” said Broos.
“It’s a covered stadium. I like to play in an open stadium. I don’t feel really the atmosphere in such a stadium. When you compare it with Azteca, for example, that is a football stadium!”
Preference for Traditional Football Venues
Furthermore, Broos said enclosed stadiums do not deliver the matchday experience he associates with football.
While he acknowledged the comfort and visibility offered by modern venues, he still favours conventional football grounds.
“These stadiums are fantastic stadiums for the crowd. I think they see everything in that stadium. There are no places that are covered or whatever. But, again, I rather like a real football stadium.”
His comments come as the United States stages World Cup matches in several multi-purpose venues.
Many of these stadiums were originally built for American football. However, organisers have adapted them for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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